Shi Tiexin sat quietly within the Martial Heart Zen Lotus.
From Shi Tie Zhu's heart, he sensed an unshakable resolve and the heroic spirit of one who faced death as if returning home.
Then he smiled faintly. "Are you underestimating me?"
"For warriors like us, treating life and death lightly and fighting anyone who refuses to submit is perfectly normal."
"Even if you and I had switched places, with you curled up in the sea of consciousness while I fought in your stead, you would have made the same choice."
"You did nothing wrong. What is there to forgive?"
"This body possesses Heavenly Forged Iron Bones."
"As the Hanging Sword, when the sky falls, you must naturally unsheathe yourself and cut the heavens."
"Go!"
"You must win!"
"Win at any cost!"
"Besides, mere Mars Alien Species have long since become amusing tales people chat about over tea where I come from. No matter what kind of mutated monster they are, they have already fallen before humanity. And I believe that neither of us is easy to provoke."
"Have confidence. Charge forward bravely. And don't forget—your avatar knows how to cultivate immortality!"
Hearing this, Shi Tie Zhu burst into hearty laughter. "Well said!"
With a click, he fastened his helmet, fusing it completely with the armor. Buzz, buzz, buzz—the conduits around him lit up with electric currents, and the launch port began to warm up. At that moment, Xiao Ling spoke. "Sergeant Major, records indicate that you enjoy listening to music. Would you like some music to heighten the mood?"
Shi Tie Zhu was intrigued. "Play some old songs. Something with some punch."
A song immediately began playing in his helmet. Since the battle armor fit tightly against his body, the music could travel through the vibration of his bones, making